Cisco N9K-C9348GC-FXP Switch

Key Features of the Cisco N9K-C9348GC-FXP Switch

Modern System Architecture Designed for Highly Scalable Data Centers

The Cisco N9K-C9348GC-FXP represents a sophisticated evolution in modern system architecture designed to meet the demanding requirements of highly scalable data centers and growing enterprises. This advanced device leverages a purpose-built silicon foundation that delivers wire rate security while maintaining optimal forwarding performance across all ports. The switch incorporates an intelligent fan speed control system with both port side intake and port side exhaust airflow options, ensuring optimal cooling efficiency in diverse rack configurations. With support for up to 696 Gbps switching capacity and over 517 mpps forwarding rate, the N9K-C9348GC-FXP provides high performance networking that scales seamlessly with evolving needs of modern cloud services and enterprise applications.

Comprehensive Port Flexibility and Advanced Features

The Nexus 9348GC-FXP switch delivers exceptional connectivity through its 48 RJ 45 Gigabit Ethernet ports, complemented by 4 versatile 25 Gigabit SFP28 interfaces and 2 high-speed 100 Gigabit QSFP28 ports that provide ultimate flexibility for ToR deployment scenarios. This comprehensive port channel configuration enables seamless integration with existing network infrastructure while providing clear migration paths to higher bandwidth technologies. The switch supports an increased number of VLANs, spanning tree instances, and ECMP paths, allowing network administrators to create complex topologies that meet diverse application requirements. Advanced features include comprehensive telemetry capabilities, active span sessions for network monitoring, and intelligent link congestion management that ensures consistent performance across all network endpoints.

ACI Deployments and Cloud Services Integration

Engineered specifically for ACI deployments, the C9348GC-FXP seamlessly integrates with Cisco’s Application Centric Infrastructure to provide centralized policy management and automated network provisioning. The switch supports both ACI mode and traditional NX-OS operation, offering unprecedented flexibility for organizations transitioning to software-defined networking architectures. Advanced MPLS capabilities, PIM SM multicast support, and sophisticated QoS mechanisms enable the device to handle complex traffic patterns typical in modern data centers. The platform’s native integration with cloud services platforms ensures optimal performance for hybrid and multi-cloud deployments, while comprehensive API support enables seamless integration with orchestration and automation tools essential for growing enterprises.

Power Efficiency and Operational Excellence

The switch features redundant power supply architecture supporting both AC power and DC power configurations, including HVAC HVDC compatibility for diverse deployment scenarios. Power management includes options for NXA PAC 350W PE and NXA PAC 350W PI AC power supply modules, as well as NXA PDC 440W PE and NXA PDC 440W PI DC power supply alternatives. Intelligent thermal management utilizes NXA FAN 30CFM F and NXA FAN 30CFM B cooling modules to maintain optimal operating temperatures while minimizing energy consumption. The maximum number of simultaneously active features has been optimized to ensure consistent performance while maintaining power efficiency, making this switch ideal for environmentally conscious data centers seeking to reduce operational costs without compromising functionality.

Specifications Cisco N9K-C9348GC-FXP Switch

Hardware Architecture and Port Configuration

Power Supply and Cooling Specifications

The N9K-C9348GC-FXP supports multiple power supply options to accommodate diverse data center requirements. AC power supply configurations include the NXA PAC 350W PE (port-side exhaust) and NXA PAC 350W PI (port-side intake) modules, providing 350W of reliable power delivery with hot-swappable capabilities. For DC power environments, the platform offers NXA PDC 440W PE and NXA PDC 440W PI modules supporting -48V DC and HVAC HVDC input voltages. The cooling system utilizes field-replaceable fan modules including NXA FAN 30CFM F (front-to-back) and NXA FAN 30CFM B (back-to-front) configurations, enabling optimal airflow management in various rack orientations while maintaining whisper-quiet operation suitable for office environments.

Software Capabilities and Network Features

The switch runs Cisco NX-OS software providing comprehensive Layer 2 and Layer 3 functionality including advanced routing protocols, multicast support with PIM SM, and extensive QoS capabilities. Telemetry features provide real-time network visibility and analytics, while active span sessions enable comprehensive traffic monitoring and analysis. The platform supports extensive ECMP paths for load balancing, sophisticated VLAN management, and comprehensive security features including MACsec encryption. Advanced features include support for VXLAN overlays, segment routing, and comprehensive automation APIs that integrate seamlessly with modern orchestration platforms and cloud services management tools.

Comparison with Cisco Nexus Product Line

Within the Cisco Nexus portfolio, the N9K-C9348GC-FXP occupies a unique position offering the optimal balance of 1GbE density and multi-gigabit uplink capabilities. Compared to other models in the Nexus 9300 series, this switch provides the highest port density of copper Ethernet ports while maintaining advanced features typically found in higher-end platforms. The device offers significant advantages over traditional ToR switches through its modern system architecture, comprehensive telemetry capabilities, and native ACI integration. Accessories including various power supply modules, fan assemblies, and rack mounting hardware provide deployment flexibility, while the comprehensive specifications ensure compatibility with diverse network requirements and evolving technology standards.

At Network Republic, our end-user accounts are covered by a 1-Year Warranty on all hardware—whether New, New Open Box, New Pull, Refurbished, or Refurbished by Manufacturer —from the date of delivery. This warranty covers hardware defects under normal use and allows for repair, replacement, or in-house credit at our discretion.

For resellers and wholesale purchases, we offer a 30-Day Warranty limited strictly to functional issues or defects upon arrival, including dead-on-arrival (DOA) items; it does not apply to problems arising after prolonged use. Resellers are responsible for inspecting and testing products within the 30-day window. This warranty excludes accidental damage, misuse, cosmetic wear, third-party modifications, and software-related issues unrelated to hardware failure. Check out our full warranty policy here.

Software licenses are not covered under the standard return and warranty policies and need to be activated on the hardware within 7 days of receipt. Any issues need to be reported immediately, within 10 days, so we can issue an exchange. Under no circumstances will refunds be issued for software licenses.